Rev. Olgon E. "O.E." Smith B-M-168-1

The Rev. O.E. Smith, 83, of Edinburgh, passed away and departed this life Friday, May 20, 2011, at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born Aug. 5, 1927, in Russell County, Ky., to the late Addie M. and Cloda S. (Wilson) Smith. He married Mayvline (Stephens) Smith on Aug. 21, 1943 in Russell County, Ky., and was blessed with 67 years of marriage. Rev. Smith served more than 40 years with the Church of God in Cleveland, Tenn., and served as pastor in churches in Arkansas, Kentucky, Michigan and Indiana, last serving and retiring from Paoli Church of God. O.E. accepted Christ as his personal savior and became a member of the Church of God. He also served in capacities such as district youth director, district overseer and ministers licensing board member. He remained steadfast in the faith and could identify with the Apostle Paul saying "I have kept the faith, I have fought the good fight and there is a crown like laid up for me at his appearing." Survivors include his wife, Mayvline (Stephens) Smith of Edinburgh; four sons, the Rev. Clifton Smith (Bonnie) of Anderson, Louie L. Smith (Debbie) of South Carolina, Milton Smith (Bonita) of Columbus, Kenney Smith (Betty) of Noblesville; a daughter, Brenda McKee (Danny) of Franklin; a brother, Orlin D. Smith of Ohio; 16 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Eva Mae Smith, on Nov. 21, 1943; and a grandson, Jason Smith. The Rev. Clifton Smith and Jerome Baker will conduct a service at 1 p.m. today at Swartz Family Community Mortuary and Memorial Center, 300 S. Morton St. (U.S. 31 South), Franklin.